I got slapped in the face November 6th when my 15 year-old niece Taylor was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cancer). At that moment, her world changed and took those around her with it. My brain seemed to freeze and accelerate all that the same time. I’ve donated or prayed for people with cancer, but I never truly understood the facets of fighting this disease. Like a whirlwind, the community around us began supporting her with cards, gifts, prayers, etc. Words can’t describe how thankful we are… which bring me to WHY I am shaving my head…

While in the Pediatric Cancer Ward, I have seen babies in cribs, toddlers walking with their IV poles, teens on crutches—all with little or no hair. In a time when our self-image is largely determined by what we see in the mirror, these children are defining themselves by their strength and courage. These “bald babies” are pure beauty. After discussing this with my friend Cathy, she stated, “I’ve always thought hair was overrated.” We decided that if we could get our community to band together—students, friends, families, and local business—we would shave our heads in unity with those who were not given the choice whether to go bald.

Though I appreciate the endless love and support poured out for Taylor, this disease is much bigger than just her case. Let’s help fight Cancer! Help me raise money to help students, neighbors, friends, nieces/nephews, sisters/brothers, cousins, grandchildren…get the help they need!

Thank you to my fellow educators (Teachers for Taylor) Cathy Corso, Drew Carpino, Lauren Ruberg and Marina Marcello for joining me in raising money for such a worthy cause.